Mixing method for manufacturing an emulsified fuel

Abstract

A mixing apparatus is disclosed. The mixing apparatus comprises a mixing device having a constant flow area. The mixing device is configured to create a shearing environment. Several types of mixing apparatus are disclosed. Methods for producing aqueous fuel emulsions with consistently uniform dispersed phase particle sizes using a mixing apparatus are also disclosed.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . A method for producing aqueous fuel emulsions with consistently uniform dispersed phase particle sizes, the method comprising:
 receiving a flow of a mixture of aqueous fuel emulsion-producing liquids in a mixing device comprising a body having a plurality of flow passages from a first face of the body to a second face of the body, each of the flow passages having a diameter and presenting a constant flow area through the body from the first face to the second face; and   a flow measurement device for measuring and controlling a flow rate of the flow from one or more inlets to the mixing device, wherein the mixture of aqueous fuel emulsion producing liquids through the plurality of flow passages is provided at a constant flow rate, and wherein the constant flow rate is selected in relation to the diameter to generate within the plurality of flow passages a shear force on the mixture of aqueous fuel emulsion-producing liquids sufficient to emulsify the mixture of aqueous fuel emulsion-producing liquids.